Panoramic Film Investment to Diversify Portfolios, Enhance Brands and Access Money-Can’t-Buy Events
The evolution of storytelling, from the primitive cave paintings of our ancient ancestors to the immersive cinematic experiences of today, is a testament to its ingrained nature in human culture. The medium has undoubtedly changed, the canvas transforming from rough cave walls to colossal 10,000 sq. ft. IMAX screens. Yet, the core purpose remains untouched - to engage, inspire, and entertain audiences around the globe.
Summit Communication Group proudly presents the third edition of Offmarket Investments (published yesterday): our exclusive newsletter for our global capital partner network. Designed for Accredited Investors, Family Offices, Venture Capitalists and Institutional Allocators. Providing you with first-look access to deal flow aligned with your asset classes and risk profile. Deals include off-market real estate, international hotels, luxury assets, film/entertainment, commodities, start-ups and emerging enterprises for your portfolio consideration.
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The British Film Industry. A Culture (Almost) Lost
The British film industry, a significant contributor to the UK’s economy, is often split into two sectors: the homegrown independent industry and the inward investment industry primarily serving large American productions. The latter accounts for a considerable portion of the annual film production activity, generating ￡1.2 billion of the ￡1.36 billion total.
In the latest data available from 2019, the total industry contribution to the Gross Domestic Product stood at a staggering ￡8 billion. Between 2016 and 2020, companies active within the industry saw a growth of 22%, with film production companies representing 51% of these firms and accounting for 29% of turnover in 2020.?
However, a glance at the British independent film industry might paint a bleak picture, akin to an abandoned construction site, with sporadic signs of development and numerous unused resources. Yet, this sector has shown potential, with quality British independent films proving successful in overseas markets, especially the United States, Canada, and Australia. Attributes such as exceptional acting, scriptwriting prowess, artistic integrity, and identifiable characters contribute to the enduring appeal of British films.
Prolific filmmakers of cinema’s past, such as Jean-Luc Godard, Truffaut, Fellini, and Fassbinder, often produced a significant number of films, a contrast to the pace of many acclaimed directors today. Notably, several recognised directors have produced only a handful of British films:
Pawel Pawlikowski, since his debut with 'The Stringer' in 1998, has made only two films in Britain, the most recent being 'My Summer of Love' in 2004. Steve McQueen's sole British film was 'Hunger' in 2008. Lynne Ramsey, Joanna Hogg, Asif Kapadia, James Marsh, Andrew Haigh, Edgar Wright, Stephen Daldry, Ben Wheatley, Peter Strickland, Danny Boyle, Mike Leigh, and Ken Loach have each made between one and 21 British films.
Directors like Ingmar Bergman, who produced more than 50 films while running the Swedish equivalent of the National Theatre, represent an ideal for many filmmakers. Bergman worked with a small, consistent team and was able to produce a film almost every year. It prompts a question: if some of the best contemporary filmmakers have only made a limited number of British films, could it be a reflection of the current filmmaking culture rather than the directors themselves?
Many British filmmakers have chosen to make films in America, including Lynne Ramsay, Andrea Arnold, Andrew Haigh, Danny Boyle, Stephen Daldry, Christopher Nolan, and James Marsh. This shift can leave British cinema deprived of its own talent. If the industry could better accommodate and inspire successful British filmmakers to continue making films in their homeland, British cinema - and indeed global cinema - could be transformed. For instance, we could have had a dozen more films from Lynne Ramsey or Jonathan Glazer in Britain by now.?
The introduction of Summit Communication Group 's Panoramic Film Fund aims to remedy this situation. By focusing on quality British filmmaking, the fund will provide an exciting new opportunity to stimulate the growth and development of the local film industry. But its real innovation is how it is structured for its capital partners who allocate to it.
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"If chess has any relationship to filmmaking, it would be in the way it helps you develop patience and discipline in choosing between alternatives at a time when an impulsive decision seems very attractive.” Stanley Kubrick
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Film: A Diversified Approach in a Changing Economic Landscape
In an era marked by sticky inflation rates and the frequent volatility of traditional investment classes such as stocks, bonds and real estate, investing in films, especially independent features, presents a dynamic and diversified strategy. Filmed entertainment has demonstrated its resilience against market fluctuations and economic downturns, making it an appealing option for elite investors, hedge funds, family offices and wealth management firms. These alternative allocators are continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance yields and fortify their investment portfolios against unexpected market tremors.
At Summit Communication Group , we recognize this upward trend and are committed to guiding our capital partners through this thrilling journey, often introducing underwriting services to protect the capital and provide a fixed annual percentage return. With our cumulative decades of experience in the media and entertainment industry, we are poised to expertly navigate the complex intricacies of independent film investment, mitigate potential risks (such as government-mandated lockdowns) and optimise returns.
But there's more to our mission. It's not only about financial returns or portfolio diversification; it's also about becoming an integral part of a vibrant, creative and impactful industry that influences global culture from the top.
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The Allure and Potential of Panoramic Film Investment
In the world of investing, diversity is key to managing risk and ensuring steady returns. Summit Communication Group 's panoramic film investment strategy is rooted in this principle. Our approach involves the meticulous curation of a broad portfolio of independent films - each chosen based on its unique appeal, cross-culture exportability, marketability to the last loyal cinemagoing audience and potential to win awards on the festival circuit.
Unlike limited-release art-house indie films, the independent films selected for our portfolio are designed for wide appeal. They often star in well-recognized talent, further bolstering their marketability. The presence of such high-profile figures enhances the potential for widespread theatrical release and bolsters the likelihood of a successful ROI. This strategy paves the way for our capital partners to venture securely and lucratively into the exciting realm of independent filmmaking.
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"I think, at the end of the day, filmmaking is a team, but eventually there's got to be a captain." Ridley Scott
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Beyond the financial prospects, we offer our sophisiticated capital partners an opportunity to be part of an industry renowned for its cultural influence and creativity. Our investors aren't simply those seeking financial gains; they are visionaries who value the power of storytelling, appreciate the allure of the film industry and understand the unique advantages that such an investment can bring.
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The Fine Balance of Risk and Reward in Film Investment
Investing, regardless of the asset class, involves a degree of risk. Independent film financing is certainly no exception. But as professionals in this sector, we seek strategies that assist capital partners to adeptly navigate these risks. We acknowledge that risk is an inherent part of the business, but we firmly believe that, with the right understanding and proactive risk management strategies, these potential pitfalls can be transformed into opportunities for substantial rewards.
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Our panoramic film fund, which is designed to outperform the average industry benchmark, doesn't rely on creative accounting or secret formulas. It's about maintaining a common-sense approach, making informed decisions based on sound judgment and employing quantitative risk management practices.
The goal is to provide an investment experience that is as rewarding as it is unique. We strive for our accredited investors to enjoy strong financial returns and the intrinsic rewards of contributing to captivating stories and engaging cinematic experiences.
"There is no guaranteed formula. And that's one of the interesting things about filmmaking. You could put $115 million in, and it doesn't guarantee success." Michelle Yeoh
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Exclusive Events: The Annual Superyacht Investor Event
At Summit Communication Group , we are excited to offer our investors more than just financial returns. By allocating to our panoramic film fund, they will also gain exclusive access to a host of prestigious industry events like the Cannes Superyacht private event.
This event will serve not only as a celebration of the film's anticipated success but also as a platform to foster valuable business relationships with luxury brand sponsors. Our audience comprises over 250 of the finest brands in diverse sectors, including retail, food & drink, fashion, hospitality, automotive, and yachting. Each dedicated to providing world-class luxury goods and experiences to a discerning consumer base.
Imagine being at the heart of the world's most glamorous film festival, networking with industry professionals, renowned directors, and A-list celebrities. Not only does this provide a unique opportunity for brand enhancement and visibility, but it also serves as an exclusive forum for high-profile networking, potentially leading to even more international opportunities.
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Summit Communication Group & Feature Film Investment
We provide our capital partners with the necessary knowledge and insight to navigate the terrain safely. Our objective is to offer an investment journey that is both rewarding and enjoyable.
As part of our commitment, we will be launching our panoramic film fund in Q4 of 2023. This fund offers corporate sponsors a chance to invest in a diverse selection of commercial British independent films, with the potential for substantial financial returns, extensive publicity, and branding opportunities.
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“Through the glamour and allure of the film industry, your association with high-profile talent, and participation in globally recognized film festivals like Cannes, your brand visibility and reputation can be significantly enhanced.” Gregory Gray, CEO of Summit Communication Group
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If you are an accredited or institutional investor seeking to diversify your alternative portfolio with an asset class that can withstand systemic risks, allocating to our upcoming panoramic film fund might be the compelling alternative you've been searching for.
Our aim is not only to outperform typical industry performance but also gain immeasurable satisfaction from the process.
After all, for some the magic of filmmaking isn't just in watching the stories - it's in being a part of them.
Table of Articles
Introduction: Panoramic Film Investment to Diversify Portfolios, Enhance Brands and Access Money-Can’t-Buy Events
First Edition: Panoramic Film Fund Part 1: The Risks and Rewards of Independent Feature Film Investments
Second Edition: Panoramic Film Fund Part 2: How The Prudent Investors Master the Art of Selectivity in Film Finance
Third Edition: Panoramic Film Fund Part 3. Decoding the Filmmaking Process and Its Financial Undertones For Investors
Fifth Edition : Panoramic Film Fund Part 5: Film Investment: A Masterclass in Calculated Risk and Capital Preservation
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Written by Gregory Gray , CEO & Founder of Summit Communication Group on 14 July 2023
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